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Accessory Structures

Reading's Accessory Structures: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles accessory structures a little differently. In Reading, Pennsylvania, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Shed & Carport Rules

Reading allows a private garage or carport in the rear setback if the vehicle door sits at least three feet from an alley, capped at 25 feet tall and one story.

Key details: Alley setback: 3 feet minimum for garage door. Max height: 25 feet. Stories allowed: One, plus second-story storage. Size trigger: Over 600 sq ft needs full setback.

Building a carport or garage that crowds the three-foot alley setback, exceeds 25 feet in height, or tops 600 square feet without meeting principal-building setbacks is a zoning violation subject to Zoning Administrator enforcement and permit denial.

ADU Rules

Reading zoning caps most residential lots at one dwelling unit and bars converting a garage or other accessory building into a dwelling unit unless another provision of the chapter specifically allows it.

Key details: Default rule: One dwelling unit per lot. Accessory conversion: Barred unless specifically allowed. Defined term exists: "Accessory apartment" in definitions. Where allowed: Only if a district permits it.

Converting a garage, basement or other accessory space into a rented or occupied dwelling unit without district use approval and a Zoning Permit is a zoning violation.

Compared to other cities, Reading takes a harder line on adu rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Reading's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Reading is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Reading's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.